Breakfast Bowl

Inspired by: Spinach pie and Breakfast pizza

If you love breakfast, you would love this spin on two ultimate dishes.

Serves: 8

8 Tortilla wraps
1 1/4 (8 oz.) Cream cheese
1 c. Swiss Cheese
5 eggs
1 lb. Extra lean breakfast sausage
2/3 c. Chopped onion
2/3 c. Chopped bell peppers
1 c. Hash brown, cooked
1/8 tsp. Ground pepper
2- 3/4 lb. Spinach, rinsed and chopped
Himalayan salt (to taste)




1. Place sausage in a large dutch oven skillet. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Drain,c rumble and set aside.

2. scramble eggs in large dutch oven skillet.

3. Preheat oven to 350. Lightly grease muffin tin with non stick cooking spray then, place tortilla wraps inside.

4. In a large bowl, combine spinach, Cream cheese, onion, pepper and salt. Mix well and pour into tortilla wrap.

5. Pour mixture into tortilla wraps and add cheese, bake at 350 for 30 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly. And tortilla wraps are golden brown.

Plantain Burgers

Adapted From: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/222250/plantain-veggie-burgers/

Serves: 5

1 3/4 Plantain, peeled and chopped
1/3 c.- 1 Tbsp. - 1 tsp. Spinach
1/3 c.- 1 Tbsp. - 1 tsp. Bell pepper, chopped
1/3 c.- 1 Tbsp. - 1 tsp. Carrots, shredded
3 Tbsp. - 1 tsp. Breadcrumbs
3 Tbsp. - 1 tsp. Corn flour
7/8 clove garlic
1 Tbsp.- 3/4 tsp. Paprika
2 1/2 fresh Oregano
2 Tbsp.- 1 1/2 tsp. Margarine
3 Tbsp. - 1 tsp. Olives
3 Tbsp. - 1 tsp. Shiitake mushrooms
3 Tbsp. - 1 tsp. Raisins
Himalayan Salt & Pepper (to taste)

Directions:

1. Combine together plantains, spinach, Bell peppers, Carrots,Raisins and Bread crumbs, corn flour, mushrooms, olives, garlic, paprika, and oregano into a food processor, or blender until a mold able batter forms; mold into patties.

2. Melt Margarine in a dutch oven skillet over medium heat; pan-fry patties until golden brown, for about 6 to 8 minutes per side. Season well with salt and pepper (to taste).

Coffee Talk....Episode 5

www.livingbettercafe.blogspot.com/coffeetelevision

On episode 4 of Coffee Talk, I will be discussing on "Vegan and Vegetarian Diets"

If you enjoy watching Coffee Talk and think someone you know can benefit from this, consider "sharing" because it's not only helping you it can help others as well.

Cacao-Cranberry quinoa cookies

Adapted from: http://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/almond-cranberry-quinoa-cookies

Serves: 2 dozens

1 1/2 c. all purpose flour
1 tsp. Course Himalayan salt
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 c. (1 stick) unsalted Margarine, room temperature
1/4 c. pure cane sugar
1/4 c. (packed) light brown sugar
1/4 c. honey
2 lg. eggs
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. almond extract
1 c. cooked quinoa, cooled
1 c. old-fashioned oats
1 c. dried cranberries
1 c. Cacao chips

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375. Line 2 cookie sheets with Silicone cooking mat. Whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda in a medium sized bowl. Using a electric mixer,or hand metal whisk, beat margarine, both sugars, and honey in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add eggs and extracts; beat until pale and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Beat in flour mixture, 1/2 cup at a time. Stir in quinoa, oats, cranberries, Cacao. Spoon dough in 2- Tbsp. portions onto prepared sheets, spacing 1- in” apart. Bake cookies until golden, 12–15 minutes. Transfer cookies to a wire rack and let cool.

Money Saving Tip Tuesday... Dishing Liquid bottle

https://youtu.be/BeXwXTrLQnc

Welcome to another edition of Money Saving tips.
In this edition I will be sharing some cool tips that won't break your bank, and will keep you smiling from ear to ear all the time.

Once again thank you for sticking around for, this third edition of money saving tips for this January edition. I will be bring you different money saving tip's daily on saving cash in your wallet, every Tuesday. This week on money saving tip's Living Better Cafe wants to, help you save more cash in your wallet than ever before. This week I will be giving you tip's on how you can reuse your empty dishing liquid bottle.

Hot out of the oven... Pineapples

Adapted from:  http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/276903.php

*Note:Please continue to read this blog article.

Living Better Cafe is bring you Fresh out of the oven news, that you're going to love. That no other blog source will ever take you close into the story. I say more good reasons to love L.B.C, not only are you revising original recipes. Your saving money while eating the way you want in a healthier way.
Welcome to Hot Out Of The Oven food news, I have yet another edition of food news coming straight from no other source but, Living Better Cafe of course. As you have read through many editions of (H.O.T.O), since I have started this food news addition. You have became more wiser about what you buy,and place into your mouth. While I am very happy to continue to keep "Hot of the oven" going as much as you keep enjoy reading it every Monday. In this second January edition I will be bring you the benefits of Pineapples.

Consuming fruits and vegetables of all kinds has long been associated with a reduced risk of many lifestyle-related health conditions. While many studies have suggested that increasing consumption of plant foods like pineapples can decreases the risk of obesity and overall mortality, diabetes, heart disease and promotes a healthy complexion and hair, increased energy, overall lower weight.

While pineapple has possible health benefits that includes:

Age-related macular degeneration: A higher intake of all fruits (3 or more servings per day) has also been shown to decrease risk of and progression of age-related macular degeneration.

Asthma prevention: Pineapple has lowered the risks for developing asthma in people who consume a high amount of certain nutrients. One of these nutrients is beta-carotene, found in plant foods like pineapple, mangoes, papaya, apricots, broccoli, cantaloupe, pumpkin and carrots.

Blood pressure: Pineapple has shown Increasing potassium intake by, consuming high potassium fruits and vegetables can help with lowering blood pressure. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, fewer than 2% of US adults meet the daily 4700 mg recommendation.
Also noted, a high potassium intake is associated with a 20% decreased risk of dying from all causes.

Cancer: Pineapple has an excellent source of the strong antioxidant vitamin C, pineapples can help combat the formation of free radicals known to cause cancer.
Diets rich in beta-carotene may also play a protective role against prostate cancer, according to a study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health's Department of Nutrition 7 and has been shown to have an inverse association with the development of colon cancer in the Japanese population.8
High fiber intakes from all fruits and vegetables are associated with a lowered risk of colorectal cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society:

"there has been studies suggesting that bromelain [which is found in pineapple] and other such enzymes may be used with standard cancer treatment to help reduce some side effects (such as mouth and throat inflammation due to radiation treatments)."
Diabetes: Studies have shown that type 1 diabetics who consume high-fiber diets have lower blood glucose levels and type 2 diabetics may have improved blood sugar, lipids and insulin levels. One medium pineapple provides about 13 grams of fiber.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends 21-25 g/day for women and 30-38 g/day for men.

Digestion: Pineapples, because of their fiber and water content, help to prevent constipation and promote regularity and a healthy digestive tract.
Fertility: Pineapple has antioxidant-rich diets have been shown to improve fertility. Because free radicals also can damage the reproductive system, foods with high antioxidant activity like pineapples that battle free radicals are recommended for those trying to conceive. The antioxidants in pineapple such as vitamins C, beta-carotene and the vitamins and minerals and copper, zinc and folate have properties that affect both male and female fertility.5

Healing and Inflammation: Some studies have shown that bromelain, the enzyme found inside pineapples, can reduce swelling, bruising, healing time, and pain associated with injury and surgical intervention. Bromelain is currently being used to treat and reduce inflammation from tendinitis, sprains, strains, and other minor muscle injuries as well as swelling related to ear, nose and throat surgeries or trauma.9
Heart health: The fiber, potassium and vitamin C content in pineapple all support heart health.

In one study they have said, those who consumed 4069 mg of potassium per day had a 49% lower risk of death from ischemic heart disease compared with those who consumed less potassium (about 1000 mg per day).

High potassium intakes are also associated with a reduced risk of stroke, protection against loss of muscle mass, preservation of bone mineral density and reduction in the formation of kidney stones.

Skin: The antioxidant vitamin C, when eaten in its natural form (as in a pineapple) or applied topically, can help to fight skin damage caused by the sun and pollution, reduce wrinkles and improve overall skin texture. Vitamin C also plays a vital role in the formation of collagen, the support system of your skin.

Pineapple is also a great way to get your source of important vitamins and minerals such as, thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B-6, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, manganese and potassium and antioxidants and polyphenols, such as beta-carotene.

How can you,(We)incorporate more pineapples into our diet:
When going to the grocery store you want to, select a pineapple with a firm, plump body without bruising or soft spots and green leaves at the crown. A green outer shell does not mean the pineapple is not ripe and contrary to popular belief, neither does the ease in which the leaves pull from the crown.

You should pick pineapples at their peak ripeness since unlike other fruits, they will not continue to ripen once picked. Whole or cut pineapple should be stored away in the refrigerator.

Potential health risks of consuming pineapples:

We as people have a tenancy of consuming too much potassium, which can be harmful for those whose kidneys are not fully functional. If your kidneys are unable to remove excess potassium from the blood, it could be fatal.

While those with gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) may experience an increase in symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation when consuming highly acidic foods, however individual reactions vary.

It is the total diet or overall eating pattern that is most important in disease prevention and achieving good health. It is better to eat a diet with variety than to concentrate on individual foods as the key to good health.

New Orleans grits

Note: If you have any food allergies to shellfish, opt out the seasoning mix.

If you are looking for the taste of new Orleans, you can enjoy this bowl of Southern right at your fingertips.


Serves: 4

1 c. Grits
4 c. Water
1 Stick margarine, melt
1 1/2 tsp. Freshly minced garlic
1/4 tsp. Cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp. Cajun seasoning
1- 2 Shrimp seasoning (ramen seasoning packet)



Directions:

1. In a medium sized pot add butter, and minced garlic. Allow the butter to melt. Once Margarine is melted remove from the burner.

2. Slowly stir grits plus garlic butter,Cajun seasoning,Cayenne, Shrimp seasoning into boiling water.

3. Reducing down the heat to medium-low; cover. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes or until desirable texture.

Food News Flash.... Recall

http://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/dole-salad-recalled-after-listeria-kills-1-sickens-12-n502311

Food News Flash:
Living Better Cafe want to keep you in the know of food recall's that just recently appeared into the news, as this recall just came to my ear's today. So, I want to share it among you all. this is coming straight to you from "NBC news ", without any adaption added to this news. I am about helping you stay safe. So, please click on this link and continue to read, and don't forget to pass this on to your family/ friends as well. It's all about caring for the one's you love.


Happy Journey to Living Better!
Katrina Smith, (Creator/ Administrator)

Vegan Taco Chili

Who said Chili is just for meat eaters only? Not Living Better Cafe.
This chili you are sure going to love
Serves: 5

1 1/2 tsp. olive oil
1/2 lb. sliced fresh mushrooms
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 small onion, finely chopped
1 stalk celery,chopped
1/2 (29 oz.) can tomato sauce
1/2 (6 oz.) can tomato paste
1 1/2 (15 oz.) cans pink beans
1/2 (11 oz.) can sweet corn (not creamed corn)
15 oz. Soy chorizo (casing removed)
1 1/4 red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 1/4 Tbsp. ground Chili powder
1 1/4 c. fresh cilantro, roughly chopped


Directions:

Heat the oil in a large dutch oven skillet. Add the soy chorizo and break up with the wooden spoon, until crumbled for 2 minutes and Set aside. Sautee the mushrooms, garlic, bell pepper, onion and celery until tender. Transfer them to a stock pot . Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, chorizo,beans and corn. Cook for at least an 45 minutes to blend the flavors. Stir in the cilantro and simmer for 15 more minutes.

Coffee Talk... Episode 4

www.livingbettercafe.blogspot.com/coffeetelevision

On episode 4 of Coffee Talk, I will be discussing on "What Anaphylaxis is"?

If you enjoy watching Coffee Talk and think someone you know can benefit from this, consider "sharing" because it's not only helping you it can help others as well.

French Onion Soup

Serves: 1

1 c. sliced onions
1 1/2 tsp. olive oil
2 Tbsp. Margarine
1 Beef flavor ramen packet
Course Himalayan Salt
Freshly grounded pepper
1 slice French bread
1 slice provolone cheese
1/2 slice Swiss cheese, diced
1 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp. Fresh thyme

Directions:

1. Melt Margarine with olive oil in an 8 quart stock pot on medium heat. Add onions and continually stir until tender and translucent. Do not brown the onions.

2. Add beef flavor, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 30 minutes.

3. Heat the oven broiler.

4. Carefully Ladle soup into a oven proof safe serving bowls and place one slice of bread on top of each. Layer each slice of bread with a slice of provolone, Swiss and Parmesan cheese. Place bowls on cookie sheet and broil in the preheated oven until cheese bubbles and browns slightly.

Orange juice cookies

Adapted from: http://catcora.com/recipes/desserts/lemonade-cookies/

When I made Cat Cora's delicious Lemonade cookies for my family one spring day. I thought to myself that theses cookies can also be made using a different kind of juice, and I so happened to think Orange Juice.

Serves: 3 dozen approximately

1 6-oz. Can of Frozen orange Juice concentrate
1/2 lb. Unsalted margarine (2 sticks) (Softened)
1 C. Pure cane Sugar (Plus extra to sprinkle over the cookies)
2 Tbsp. Orange Zest (Finely Grated)
2 Large Eggs
2 1/2 C. All-Purpose Flour
1 tsp. Baking soda
1/8 tsp. Course Himalayan salt

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375.

2. Fill a metal large bowl with warm water, and place unopened can of orange juice inside to thaw... meanwhile mixing the cookie dough.

3. In a large glass bowl, cream together the margarine and sugar with a hand mixer, or electric mixer. Add in the orange zest, if desired. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Continue beating until the mixture is light and creamy, 4-5 minutes, then set aside. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda and salt.

4. Measure out about 1/2 cup of the thawed Orange Juice and set the rest aside. Add about 1/3 of the flour mixture to the creamed margarine and sugar. Stir, then add about one third of the 1/2 cup orange juice. Continue adding the flour and orange juice alternately, stirring after each addition, until the mixture shows no signs of flour. Beat on low speed with the mixer just until all the ingredients are combined.

5. on a ungreased cookie sheet drop teaspoonful of dough 2 inches apart.

6. Bake the cookies, checking them after 8 minutes. When the edges are just starting to brown, remove the cookies from the oven. (The centers will still look soft.) Using a pastry brush, immediately brush the top of each cookie very lightly with a little of the remaining Orange juice concentrate, then lightly sprinkle with sugar. Transferring the cookies to a rack and allow them to cool completely.

Money Saving Tip Tuesday... Margarine

Picture From: Tabletmag.com

Welcome to another edition of Money Saving tips.
In this edition I will be sharing some cool tips that won't break your bank, and will keep you smiling from ear to ear all the time.

Once again thank you for sticking around for, this third edition of money saving tips for this January edition. I will be bring you different money saving tip's daily on saving cash in your wallet, every Tuesday. This week on money saving tip's Living Better Cafe wants to, help you save more cash in your wallet than ever before. This week I will be giving you tip's on how you can make your own margarine at home. Yes, margarine can become quite expensive at times but, why spend a lot of money when you can spend less and make it yourself. So, I am here to give you some tips which also included a recipe that you can follow.

First there seem to be a battle over what is more healthy butter or, margarine as I have done researched plenty of times. While there is one research that really still stands out to me, and that would be back in the year of 2005. Reading after reading news paper articles and even going online. Researcher claimed that margarine was basically melted plastic. Weird hey? Yeah but, to each's own there is always going to be someone saying something negative about food.

So, you can read about the truth here at Living Better Cafe or, you can believe what the next researcher say's.

As I really could not rest until I got to the truth behind Margarine, and which I can finally say and hope you all can rest as well.

But, before I do I just want to point out that, every margarine company out there is not the same. For example, one company may use a scientific name for the ingredients they chose to place into their margarine. Which makes it harder for you and I to understand.

Yes, there has been rumor escalating around since 2005 but, I can finally help put these rumors to rest.

Some company's came to realize that the ingredients that they have been using was not good at all. So, they made a much better choice in going a different route. They swapped out the old and brought in the new, and what was the new? They started using vegetable oil or, canola oil.

Now let's get to the base on whether Margarine is good....Calorie wise!

Both butter and margarine carry the same amount of calories, and each of them carries about a Tablespoon.

I hope that I have helped you brighten your horizon on Margarine, that this make you rethink when you take your next trip to the grocery store. Why maybe your next trip will be going out and grabbing a few items to make it yourself.

So, Here is that recipe that I have mentioned.

1 C. Olive oil
1 C. Cold water
1 Tbsp. Liquid lecithin
7 Drops of yellow food coloring

Directions:

1. Add 1 c. each of oil and water to mixing bowl.

2. Add in lecithin and food coloring.

3. Mix until completely blended together.

4. once completely blended store inside your refrigerator to allow it to set.

*Flavor enhancer:
if you want to add flavor to make your Margarine pop, you can add the followings.

1. salt

2. Pepper

3. herbs

4. Spices

* Note:

What is Lecithin?

Lecithin is found in many animal and vegetable sources, including beef liver, steak, eggs, peanuts, cauliflower, and oranges. Commercial sources for lecithin may come from soybeans, egg yolk, or even brain tissue.

Now your next questions lies, where can you find Lecithin?

Lecithin can be found in most health food stores.

Next would be but, what if I can not find Lecithin?

Now, Now do not worry I have you covered, with common and scientific names.

So, lets start off with Common names first.

1. Lecithol

2. Vitellin

3. Kelecin

4. Granulestin

Now here are the scientific names

1. 1,2-diacyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylcholine

Living Better Precautions:

With everything you take in there is always a side effect. So, read the labels carefully and do ask questions? by going to the health pharmacist.

Hot out of the oven... Low sodium diet

Picture from: myemail.constantcontact.com

*Note:Please continue to read this blog article.

Living Better Cafe is bring you Fresh out of the oven news, that you're going to love. That no other blog source will ever take you close into the story. I say more good reasons to love L.B.C, not only are you revising original recipes. Your saving money while eating the way you want in a healthier way.
Welcome to Hot Out Of The Oven food news, I have yet another edition of food news coming straight from no other source but, Living Better Cafe of course. As you have read through many editions of (H.O.T.O), since I have started this food news addition. You have became more wiser about what you buy,and place into your mouth. While I am very happy to continue to keep "Hot of the oven" going as much as you keep enjoy reading it every Monday. In this second January edition I will be bring you the benefits of Low sodium diet.

Most people throughout the united states eat much more sodium (salt) than they need. Which this can lead to health problems like high blood pressure. Even people with normal blood pressure will have lower (and healthier) blood pressure if they lower how much salt they eat. Your doctor may tell you to eat no more than 2,300 mg a day when you have these conditions.Like for some people, 1,500 mg a day is an even better goal.

How do we go about lowing our sodium intake? Try by eating a balanced diet.

Start by buying fresh vegetables and fruits whenever possible. They are naturally low in salt. Canned foods often contain salt to preserve the color of the food and keep it looking fresh. For this reason, it is better to buy fresh foods. Also that includes buying:
fresh meats, chicken or turkey, and fish, plus fresh or; frozen vegetables and fruits.

How do we go about searching for these words on the label? We start by looking for these key words.

1. Low-sodium

2. sodium-free

3. No salt added

4. Sodium-reduced

5. Unsalted

Then we check all labels for how much salt foods contain per serving sizes.

As the ingredients are listed in order of the amount the food contains. Avoid foods that list salt near the top of the list of ingredients. A product with less than 100 mg of salt per serving sizes is good.

We want to stray away from foods that are always high in salt. For example:

1. Processed foods, such as cured or smoked meats, bacon, hot dogs, sausage, bologna, ham, and salami.

2. Anchovies, olives, pickles, and sauerkraut.

3. Soy and Worcestershire sauces, tomato and other vegetable juices, and most cheeses.

4. Plus many bottled salad dressings and salad dressing mixes.(Hint: you're best bet is to make you're own dressing)

5. Most snack foods, such as chips, crackers, and others.

Now when it comes to us cooking, replace Ms. Dash with other seasonings. Pepper, garlic, herbs, and lemon are good choices. Avoid packaged spice blends. They often contain salt.

You want to use garlic and onion powder, not garlic and onion salt. You want to be on the look out for foods containing monosodium glutamate (MSG), which you do not want to eat.

Feel like treating yourself to a night out, stick to steamed, grilled, baked, boiled, and broiled foods with no added salt, sauce, or cheese. If you have any concerns about the restaurant using monosodium glutamate (MSG), ask them not to add it inside your meal.

Now how do we go about adding the taste of salt without the salt? Simple just by, using oil and vinegar on salads. Add fresh or dried herbs. Eat fresh fruit or sorbet for dessert, If you have a salt shaker at your dinning room table. Replace it by, using salt-free seasoning.

Now if you have any medical conditions ask your doctor if a salt substitute is safe for you. Especially antacids and laxatives which contains little or no salt, if you need these medicines. Some have a lot of salt in them.
*Note:Please continue to read this blog article.

Living Better Cafe is bring you Fresh out of the oven news, that you're going to love. That no other blog source will ever take you close into the story. I say more good reasons to love L.B.C, not only are you revising original recipes. Your saving money while eating the way you want in a healthier way.
Welcome to Hot Out Of The Oven food news, I have yet another edition of food news coming straight from no other source but, Living Better Cafe of course. As you have read through many editions of (H.O.T.O), since I have started this food news addition. You have became more wiser about what you buy,and place into your mouth. While I am very happy to continue to keep "Hot of the oven" going as much as you keep enjoy reading it every Monday. In this second January edition I will be bring you the benefits of Low sodium diet.

Most people throughout the united states eat much more sodium (salt) than they need. Which this can lead to health problems like high blood pressure. Even people with normal blood pressure will have lower (and healthier) blood pressure if they lower how much salt they eat. Your doctor may tell you to eat no more than 2,300 mg a day when you have these conditions.Like for some people, 1,500 mg a day is an even better goal.

How do we go about lowing our sodium intake? Try by eating a balanced diet.

Start by buying fresh vegetables and fruits whenever possible. They are naturally low in salt. Canned foods often contain salt to preserve the color of the food and keep it looking fresh. For this reason, it is better to buy fresh foods. Also that includes buying:
fresh meats, chicken or turkey, and fish, plus fresh or; frozen vegetables and fruits.

How do we go about searching for these words on the label? We start by looking for these key words.

1. Low-sodium

2. sodium-free

3. No salt added

4. Sodium-reduced

5. Unsalted

Then we check all labels for how much salt foods contain per serving sizes.

As the ingredients are listed in order of the amount the food contains. Avoid foods that list salt near the top of the list of ingredients. A product with less than 100 mg of salt per serving sizes is good.

We want to stray away from foods that are always high in salt. For example:

1. Processed foods, such as cured or smoked meats, bacon, hot dogs, sausage, bologna, ham, and salami.

2. Anchovies, olives, pickles, and sauerkraut.

3. Soy and Worcestershire sauces, tomato and other vegetable juices, and most cheeses.

4. Plus many bottled salad dressings and salad dressing mixes.(Hint: you're best bet is to make you're own dressing)

5. Most snack foods, such as chips, crackers, and others.

Now when it comes to us cooking, replace Ms. Dash with other seasonings. Pepper, garlic, herbs, and lemon are good choices. Avoid packaged spice blends. They often contain salt.

You want to use garlic and onion powder, not garlic and onion salt. You want to be on the look out for foods containing monosodium glutamate (MSG), which you do not want to eat.

Feel like treating yourself to a night out, stick to steamed, grilled, baked, boiled, and broiled foods with no added salt, sauce, or cheese. If you have any concerns about the restaurant using monosodium glutamate (MSG), ask them not to add it inside your meal.

Now how do we go about adding the taste of salt without the salt? Simple just by, using oil and vinegar on salads. Add fresh or dried herbs. Eat fresh fruit or sorbet for dessert, If you have a salt shaker at your dinning room table. Replace it by, using salt-free seasoning.

Now if you have any medical conditions ask your doctor if a salt substitute is safe for you. Especially antacids and laxatives which contains little or no salt, if you need these medicines. Some have a lot of salt in them.

Breakfast lasagna

Adapted from: http://www.tablespoon.com/recipes/breakfast-lasagna/45f932a9-98e0-4cb4-bfb0-3489b1a83de6

Serves: 8

1 lb. lasagna noodles
8 eggs
1 c. mozzarella
1 c. cheddar
1 c. crumbled blue cheese
1 c. ricotta

Sauce Builder:

3 Tbsp. margarine
3 Tbsp. flour
3 Tbsp. Crushed red pepper flakes
2 c. milk
1 lb. ground breakfast sausage
1 onion
1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes

Directions:

1. Brown the ground sausage and remove from the skillet. In the same skillet pan, cook the onions to lightly brown. Add in the margarine and flour and stir well, cooking for about 2 minutes. Whisk in the milk and bring to a simmer. Remove from the heat and add the sausage back into skillet. Strain the diced tomatoes and stir into the sauce.

2. Cook the noodles in a pot of salt boiling water until tender.

3. In a small glass bowl, crack and whisk two eggs. Prepare a frying pan to cook the eggs that is the same size as your round baking dishes.

4. In a glass baking dish, start with a thin layer of sauce, following by the first layer of noodles, then some more sauce and all three cheeses. Cook the first egg round for only a few minutes without flipping until it has just barely set on top. Transfer the egg to the top of the noodles then repeat with another layer of everything.

5. Top with a final pasta layer and a little more cheese and sauce and bake at 400°F for about 15 minutes.

Moon Pies

Adapted from: http://www.forkandbeans.com/2014/03/07/gluten-free-vegan-moon-pies/


Serves: 8

1/4 c. vegan butter
1/4 c. coconut sugar
1 Tbsp. molasses
1 Tbsp. flax seed meal + 2 Tbsp. warm water, thickened for 5 minutes

Dry ingredients:

1 c. All-Purpose Blend (see ingredients blow)
1/4 c. teff flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

Building the marshmallow filling:

2 c. vegan marshmallows
2 Tbsp. vegan butter
1 tsp. vanilla extract

Cacao coating:

1 c. cacao nibs
1 Tbsp. Vegetable oil

Directions:

Building the cookies:

1. In a large sized glass mixing bowl, beat margarine with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for about 30 seconds or till softened. Add sugar, molasses, and flax seed "egg" until well-combined.

2. In a medium sized glass mixing bowl, whisk the dry ingredients together. Slowly add in the flour into the wet ingredients mix and stir with a wooden spoon until a nice dough forms. It shouldn't be sticky at this point. If so, add more flour by the tablespoon.

3. Divide the dough into 2 balls.

4. Preheat oven to 350. Line baking sheet with a silicone baking mat.

5. Roll one ball dough into 1/4"-in /3-mm thickness between 2 pieces of parchment paper. If the dough starts to become difficult this means it the dough is too warm. place into the freezer for about 10 minutes.

6. Using a 2 5/8"-in /68-mm biscuit cutter, cut dough into circles.
Place on the baking sheet and bake for about 5 to 7 minutes or till edges are firm. Cool on cookie sheet for 1 minute. Transferring cookies to a cooling rack.

Building the marshmallow filling:

1. In a saucepan over low-medium heat, stir the vegan butter and marshmallows until almost completely melted. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.

2. Allow to cool down and harden up just briefly for a couple of minutes, then by the spoonful scoop onto one cookie and sandwich between the other. Add in a little more onto the top of the cookie and sandwich with another cookies. Allow to set. You can also even places into the freezer.

Building the cacao coating:

Once after the cookie sandwiches have set, melt the Cacao nibs and add vegetable oil for a shine. Dip each cookie sandwich into the bowl of melted cacao until it is completely covered. Allow to set on a piece of parchment paper. You can freeze them for a faster setting time or leave them out on the counter, which will take more time.

Coffee Talk...episode 3

www.livingbettercafe.blogspot.com/coffeetelevision

On today episode I will be discussing the  factors of "Cacao" and "Chocolate".

7 up cookies

Adapted from: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/10188/root-beer-cookies/

If you love 7 up cake then you will love theses cookies.

Serves: 18

1 c. packed brown sugar
1/2 c. Margarine
1 egg
1/4 cup buttermilk
1 tsp. Pure vanilla extract
1 3/4 c. all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. Course Himalayan salt

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350.
2. Combined together the brown sugar, 1/2 c. margarine, egg, buttermilk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
3. Add flour, baking soda and salt and incorporate well.
4. Drop about a teaspoon sized pieces of dough 2 inches apart on greased cookie sheets. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes.

Buffalo style French fries

Adapted from: http://tidymom.net/2013/buffalo-fries/

Do you enjoy the taste of buffalo wings? Why not try these buffalo style French fries.

Serves: 4-6

1 1/2 bags frozen french fries
1-2 Tbsp. Vegetable oil
1 tsp. garlic salt
1 tsp. cayenne powder
ground pepper to taste
1 c. buffalo wing sauce
1-2 Tbsp. margarine
1 1/2 c. sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1/2 c. blue cheese, crumbled
1/2 c. Pepper jack cheese
3 green onions, sliced
1 Tbsp. chopped chives
1 Tbsp. Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions:

1. preheat oven to 450, Spray a large baking sheet with non stick cooking spray. Using a large bowl, add french fries and drizzle with oil. Add garlic salt, cayenne powder and pepper. Use a wooden spoon to stir fries until well coated with oil and seasonings.

2. Place seasoned fries in a single layer on baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes on middle rack, turning fries half way thru. While fries are baking, use a small saucepan heat buffalo sauce and margarine over low heat until warm and margarine is liquefied.

3. Remove fries when crispy, turn oven to high broil and make sure you have a rack in the highest position. Leaving potatoes on the pan, drizzle with buffalo sauce then sprinkle with cheddar cheese and blue cheese, pepper jack evenly over the top.

4. Place pan of potatoes under broiler and watch closely until cheese is melted and bubbly , should only take about 2-3 minutes.

5. Remove, let cool for about 2 minutes, then sprinkle with onions and chives.
Serve with crushed red pepper flakes and ranch dressing, and Live Happy!

Money Saving Tip Tuesday....Growing you're own produces

Welcome to another edition of Money Saving tips.
In this edition I will be sharing some cool tips that won't break your bank, and will keep you smiling from ear to ear all the time.
Once again thank you for sticking around, for this Second edition of Money saving tips for this January edition. I will be bring you different Money saving tip's daily on saving cash in your wallet, every Tuesday. This week on Money saving tip's Living Better Cafe wants to, help you save more cash in your wallet than ever before. This week I will be giving you tip's on how you can grow you're produces, right in you're own space. Yes, You heard me correctly and it's inexpensive to. All it take's is a few containers on your patio or a space in your backyard. So, let's begin by grabbing out you're garden gloves or better yet, it's alright to get your hands down in the dirt.

Natural lighting:

1. Why of course when it comes to planting you are going to need some sort of lighting, and that is called "Sunlight".

Space,Space,Space:

2. We have already covered the lighting aspect of where you're produce will gain light. So, now you need the proper space to grown you're produces. I will give you a few suggestions here, and then you can go off and experiment with those.

For starters

* Cartons

* Coffee can

* Flower pot

* Tupperware container


Inexpensive seeds:

3. Some may say fruit and other's may call them vegetable, but either way it's still something edible.

* Bell Pepper seeds

Instead of discarding those seeds, place them onto a paper towel and allow them to dry. (Note: Dry all wet seeds on a glass or ceramic plate. Spread the seeds evenly over the surface of the plate and stir twice daily to ensure even drying and to keep them from clumping together.)

* Onion

Fill a glass with water, and place the whole onion with the root side down inside the water. And place on windowsill where it can get the most lighting possible. Note: Do remember to change the water periodical. once you begin to see green approaching out of the onion, then you can begin to start planting it into a pot.

* Jalapeno Peppers

Same as bell peppers, but when removing these seeds you will need to wear gloves. (For the notes for these seed "Read" Bell Pepper.)

* cucumber

If you have use the cucumbers for pickling then the seeds are no longer useful. Cut the ripe cucumber in half and scrape the seeds into a bowl. To remove the seeds' coating, rub them gently around the inside of a sieve while washing them or soak them in water for two days. Rinse and dry. (Note: Make sure the cucumbers you use for seed are disease-free; plus pesticide free because some diseases can be carried on seed. And could affect your future crop.)

Selecting soil:

4. Now that you have the lighting down packed and you have sorted out your space, and collected your seeds now it's time to grown your green thumb. Not every plant can handle the same soil another plant can handle so, that where you will need to call your nearest nursery for information. Or even better yet, to save on time and money you can go to your local Library and search for gardening books.



Thank You for sticking around for another edition of Money saving Tuesday. As I am always glad to keep you in the know of fun ways you can save more money, and Live Healthy at the same time. Please consider "Sharing" and remember that you can also check out "Living Better Cafe" at https://www.facebook.com/livingbettercafe and do not forget to join Living Better Cafe community page on Google plus.




Until next time Happy Journeys to living better!


Katrina Smith,(Creator/ Administrator)

Special Announcement

Special Announcement:

*Note: Today there will not be any food news because I want to bring to you something else. Please consider to read more into this special announcement.

I Katrina Smith you're Creator/ Administrator of Living Better Cafe wants to, bring you a very special announcement. Today is a very special day here at Living Better Cafe, Which marks two years of me posting Healthy recipes for you all to, enjoy. As there are multiple recipe blog's out there, I find that "Living Better Cafe" has more variety to offer you. While the thought process behind Living Better Cafe continues to grow. I hope that you continue to enjoy coming here, and trying every Recipe, money saving tips, plus reading about food you may or, may not have known about. As Living Better Cafe wouldn't have made it without you all, So, I Katrina Smith want's to wish you all a very Happy Birthday as well because you help make what Living Better Cafe is today.


Happy Journeys to living Better, and looking forward to spending more years ahead with you all.
Katrina Smith,(Creator-Administrator)

Vegan Burrito

Serves: 2

2 (10-in) Corn tortilla
1 small onion, chopped
1 tsp. fresh garlic, minced
1 (15 oz.) Can black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
1 tsp. Tabasco sauce

Directions:

1. Place tortillas inside oven at 350, and bake at 15 minutes or heated through.

2. Heat oil in a 10-inch dutch oven skillet over medium heat. Place onion, garlic in skillet, cook for 2 minutes stirring occasionally. Pour beans into skillet, cook 3 minutes stirring.

3. Spoon mixture evenly down center of warmed tortilla and roll tortillas up. Serve with a tsp. of Tabasco sauce, spinach.

One pot wonder potato hash

Serves: 1

1 small potato,shredded
1 egg* Tofu
1 small half onion
1 tsp. minced garlic
Black pepper
Cajun seasoning
vegetable oil

Directions:

1. Add oil to a dutch oven pan and allow to get good and hot.

2. Add all the ingredients expect seasoning and allow to cook.

3. Once all the ingredients are done, add in the seasoning and stir until incorporated.

Coffee Talk..... Episode 2

www.livingbettercafe.blogspot.com/coffeetelevision

I am excited to bring you another addition of "Living Better Cafe" web based talk show, as I hope you have enjoyed watching last week episode of Coffee talk, this week I want to share a little bit more. So, with that being said I hope you enjoy this episode. Please consider "Following"  and "Share".

Happy journey to living Better!

Katrina Smith, (Creator/Administrator)

Grilled Turkey po Boy

Adapted from: http://www.foodnetwork.com/…/grilled-turkey-po-boy-recipe.h…

Serves: 3- 4

1 whole wheat French baguette, split lengthwise and cut into 3 to 4 equal pieces
3 Tbsp. Margarine, softened
3/4 lb. Beer brined Turkey Breast
4 to 5 heirloom tomatoes, sliced 1/4-inch thick
1/4 c. pepperoncini slices, drained
1 1/2 c. shredded romaine lettuce, loosely packed, (discard very dark loosely leaves).

Beer Brined Turkey

1 (2 1/2 to 3- lb.) turkey breast, bone-in
3 c. beer
1/2 c.hot sauce
2 Tbsp. Course Himalayan salt
1 Tbsp. fresh basil, chopped
1 Tbsp. fresh garlic, mined
1 Tbsp. Crushed red pepper flakes
1 tsp. cayenne pepper
1 tsp. ground black pepper
Low fat or low sodium Tartar sauce

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to a low broil. Margarine the bread and place on a baking sheet. Broil until golden, 2 to 3 minutes, and remove from the oven.

2. Spread Tartar sauce on both sides of the bread. Layer on the turkey, tomatoes, pepperoncini and romaine. Top with other half of bread and serve.

Beer Brine Turkey Breast

1. Blend together all ingredients inside a large mixing bowl, and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours.

2. Preheat the oven at 325.

3. Remove the turkey breast from the brine, drain well and pat dry with paper towels.

4. Place the turkey breast, skin-side up, on a baking sheet with a properly fitted wire rack. Place in the oven and cook for 1 hour 15 minutes. Turn the oven temperature to 400 and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature is 160 degrees F and the skin is nicely browned. Remove from the oven, cover with aluminum foil and let rest for about 10 minutes.

5. Meanwhile, preheat the grill to medium heat and oil the grates with vegetable oil.-(Cautious Alert: be very careful not to oil over the flame's).

6. Once the turkey has snoozed, cut the meat off the bone and carve into 3/8-in thick slices. Place the slices on the grill and cook 1 to 2 minutes on both sides, just until grill marks develop. Once you see grill marks remove from grill and serve.

Molten lava cookies

Adapted from: http://www.kevinandamanda.com/…/chocolate-chip-lava-cookies…

If you love Molten lava cake your taste buds will for sure love theses cookies.

Serves: varies

1/2 c. (1 stick) Margarine, softened
1/2 c. coconut sugar
1/2 c. pure cane sugar
1 large egg
1/2 Tbsp. Pure vanilla extract
1 3/4 c. all purpose flour
1/2 tsp. Course Himalayan salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 (11.5 oz) semi sweet chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350. Spray a standard size muffin tin with cooking spray. Place ½ c. chocolate chips in a double boiler, and stir until chocolate is melted. Pour into Ziploc bag. Set aside to cool.

2. With an electric mixer, cream the margarine and sugars until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add egg and vanilla and beat until well combined. In a separate glass mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Add to the wet ingredients and beat on low speed until just combined. Add the remaining chocolate chips (1 c.) and stir to combine.

3. Using half the cookie dough, scoop 1/2 -2 Tbsp of dough, flatten it out a little bit, and place in the bottom of the muffin tin.

4. Repeat for a total of 10 cookies. Cut a small tip in the corner of the Ziploc bag, and gently squeeze a layer of chocolate over the cookie. Scoop and flatten the remaining dough and place on top of the chocolate layer. Bake at 350 for 15-20 minutes, until the edges are just browned. As soon as they come out of the oven, run a knife around the edges to make for easy removing later. Cool completely before removing from the muffin tin, running a knife around the edge to help loosen.

Living Better suggestions:

* caoca nibs

Money Saving tip Tuesday... Kitchen sponge

Welcome to another edition of Money Saving tips.
In this edition I will be sharing some cool tips that won't break your bank, and will keep you smiling from ear to ear all the time.
Once again thank you for sticking around, for this first edition of Money saving tips for this January edition. I will be bring you different Money saving tip's daily on saving cash in your wallet, every Tuesday. This week on Money saving tip's Living Better Cafe wants to, help you save more cash in your wallet than ever before. This week I will be giving you tip's on how you can take your Kitchen sponges.

How else are we suppose to clean our dishes if we do not have the access to a dishwasher?, and even still if we did have the access to a dishwasher. A kitchen sponge is one of the necessity that is required when it comes to clean up dirty dishes. So, I have some very unique tip's that will even have you're kitchen saying "Wow"!.


Let's multiple:

1. This is also a budget cutter as well, take your scissors and cut each sponge in half.



For the crafty one:

2. you can build you're own kitchen sponge by, buying some foam and reusing the nylon bag's from you're produce or; go to the craft store and find reminisce of nylon. Before tossing away you're old sponge use it as an example, that way you can use it as a guild to build you're new sponge.

Hot of the oven.... Apple Cider Vinegar

*Note:Please continue to read this blog article.

Living Better Cafe is bring you Fresh out of the oven news, that you're going to love. That no other blog source will ever take you close into the story. I say more good reasons to love L.B.C, not only are you revising original recipes. Your saving money while eating the way you want in a healthier way.

Welcome to Hot Out Of The Oven food news, I have yet another edition of food news coming straight from no other source but, Living Better Cafe of course. As you have read through many editions of (H.O.T.O), since I have started this food news addition. You have became more wiser about what you buy,and place into your mouth. While I am very happy to continue to keep "Hot of the oven" going as much as you keep enjoy reading it every Monday. In this first January edition I will be bring you the benefits of Apple cider vinegar.

For over centuries, vinegar has been used for various household and cooking purposes.
Apple cider vinegar holds a lot of remedies, that helps with all sorts of health problems.


Apple cider vinegar has a lot of beneficial effects...as you will begin to read on within this Article of Apple cider vinegar.

This nature miracle has helped with weight loss, lower blood sugar levels and improved symptoms of diabetes.It can help kill pathogens, including bacteria.

It has traditionally been used for cleaning and disinfecting, treating nail fungus, lice, warts and ear infections. As apple cider vinegar has been used as a food preservative, and studies show that it inhibits bacteria (like E. coli) from growing in the food and spoiling it.

If you’re looking for a natural way to preserve your food… then the best thing is to grab for apple cider vinegar which has been highly useful. Apple cider vinegar helps with acne when applied on the skin, diluted with a little bit of water or, just wipe with just with plain A.C.V on face using a cotton ball.

Apple cider vinegar can improve circulation, clear out your liver, and generally clean your system. To believe it or not (ACV) help with removing dandruff. Just mix equal parts (about 1/4 cup each) apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray onto your hair after shampoo, let sit for 15 minutes and rinse. Use twice per week, and you should be flake free in no time. Now this depends on your hair texture and not every person hair texture can handle this.


If you ever feel a sore throat coming on, as taking medication for it not good all the time. Mix one teaspoon apple cider vinegar, one teaspoon cayenne pepper and three teaspoons manuka honey in a glass of warm water for an easy elixir. All three ingredients will work together to help you heal: Apple cider vinegar and honey have antibacterial properties, and the capsaicin in hot peppers helps alleviate pain. If that sore throat is due to allergies, apple cider vinegar packs an extra punch, since it also breaks up mucous and sinus congestion.

When people are looking for a way to balance their digestive system, they are quick to run towards chemical's. Like those medicated colon cleanse we see on television advertisement, Why reach into our pantry or better yet go to the grocery store and purchase Apple cider vinegar. Apple cider helps with reduce gas, dilute a tablespoon of enzyme-rich apple cider vinegar with a cup of water or tea, and drink before a meal. This will also combat constipation, since the vinegar stimulates digestive juices that help your body breakdown food. You can also take a dose as soon as you feel heartburn symptoms coming on for a quick fix. Some theories suggest that heartburn occurs because of low stomach acid levels; so vinegar brings that level up. If you hate the taste of this mixture, just add a Tbsp. of honey.


We are also suspects of looking for perfect white pearly white teeth, and apple cider vinegar can get rid of those stubborn stains. Just by rub apple cider vinegar directly on your teeth then rinse with water. Be careful not to do this too often, as it can break down tooth enamel. For a less abrasive whitening mouthwash, mix one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with a cup of water, then swish around in your mouth.

Banana and cream steel cut oatmeal

Say good ridden to instant style of oatmeal, home made steel cut is more healthier then instant.

serves: 4- 6

1 Tbsp. Margarine
1 c. steel cut oats
1 c. Milk* (Dairy free)
1 ripe banana, mashed
3 Tbsp. Pure cane sugar
1/2 tsp. Course Himalayan salt

Note:

If the banana is sweet enough than opt out sugar.

Directions:

1. In medium sized saucepan, combine steel-cut oats and Milk, bring to a boil. Immediately reduce heat to medium. Cover and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes or until the oats are just tender and the liquid is nearly absorbed. Add and stir in the mashed bananas. Remove the sauce pan from heat and let stand, covered for 5 minutes before serving.

Curried Vegan meatloaf

Adapted from: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/14610/curried-meatloaf/

If you enjoy meatloaf and love the flavor of curry, then this is recipe will hit the spot.

Serves: 4

1 lb. Vegetarian Meat
1/2 c. Panko bread crumbs or quick oats
1/3 c. chopped scallions
1/3 c. chopped bell peppers
3 Tbsp. - 1 3/4 tsp. Ketchup
1 3/4 tsp. Curry powder
3/4 tsp. Cayenne pepper
3/4 tsp. Course Himalayan salt
5/8 egg* egg substitute

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375.

2. In a large mixing bowl, mix together ground turkey, oats, scallions, ketchup, egg, curry powder, cayenne pepper and salt. Shape meatloaf to fit into a 4x2 in loaf pan. Placing into a large shallow glass pan.

3. Bake according to directions on package.

Coffee Talk...Episode 1

www.livingbettercafe.blogspot.com/coffeetelevision

Hello and welcome to "Living Better Cafe", Coffee talk web based food blog interaction talk show. I Katrina Smith you're creator/ admin of "Living Better cafe". I want to introduce you to this very first episode of Coffee Talk, and I hope you all enjoy! Please do not forget to turn into"Living Better Cafe" on Friday's. 

Happy journey to living better,

Katrina Smith